5.1 This procedure is suitable for manufacturing control and for verifying that the product meets specifications. It provides rapid, multi-element determinations with sufficient accuracy to assure product quality. The analytical performance data included may be used as a benchmark to determine if similar X-ray spectrometers provide equivalent precision and accuracy, or if the performance of a particular spectrometer has changed.

5.2 It is expected that this standard will be employed by analysts knowledgeable in the field of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and experienced in the use of the apparatus specified in this test method.

1.1 This test method2 covers the analysis of stainless and alloy steels by wavelength dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry for the determination of the following elements:

Element

Range, Mass Fraction %

Chromium

0.5 to 25

Cobalt

0.05 to 0.45

Copper

0.06 to 3.5

Manganese

0.3 to 5.5

Molybdenum

0.02 to 3.5

Nickel

0.6 to 35

Niobium

0.03 to 1.3

Phosphorus

0.01 to 0.03

Silicon

0.1 to 2

Sulfur

0.02 to 0.35

Titanium

0.008 to 0.5

Vanadium

0.02 to 0.25

Note 1: Unless exceptions are noted, mass fraction ranges can be extended by using suitable reference materials. Extended ranges must be verified by experimental means. This could include, but not be limited to, Interlaboratory studies, Round Robin exercises, and other validation approaches. See Guide E2857 for additional guidance.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 10.

1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.